V-MAT 10th MILITARY & TOY GUN EXHIBITION
26-27th of January, 2002
Location: Tokyo Tower, Japan

The annual V-MAT exhibition in Japan gathers a militaria fans around the Japan and is well known event. The main organizers are besides the fans, Arms Magazine and the annual sponsoring company, which this year was Smokey's. Many groups of fans join the event such as US Special Forces group, German WWII military recreators, military surplus and gun shops, some manufacturers and publishers of magazines.

The participants change every year, so things are always interesting for the fan. For example, two years ago a well known and popular artist of military manga, Mr. Kobayashi (the author of Cat Shit One and number of WWII & modern era war manga)attended the exhibition and received a warm hearted response from his fans.

One of this years specialty was a Radio Saigon, which broadcasted for the whole event. This is a another indication how popular Vietnam war recreation is in Japan!

Another one's were military vehicles, such as US M3 half track. This year the emphasis was on US vehicles, the themes vary from time to time.

In Japan, the hobbyist is a true hobbyist. Man dedicated completely for his hobby, but often becoming a outsider for others due to his neverending commitment for perfection and knowledge. So, V-MAT is a good opportunity for the like-minded souls to gather and exchange contact. After all, the military maniacs in Japan are not seen very well in Japanese society to put in mildly.